Page 257 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 2

“Wow. At least he’s a nice control freak.”

Anna laughed. “What does he mean by trusted friends?” Her phone rang. “Hello?”

“Hello, Katrina. It’s Simon.”

Anna grinned. “Hi, Simon.” She wagged her eyebrows at Aaron, who grinned back at her. “How did you get my number?”

“I have my ways. Sometimes it’s better not to ask.”

She giggled. “Okay.”

“I wanted to call and give you my number. Mr. J wants you to enjoy yourself with your friends on Saturday. I just need to know how many to make the reservations for.”

“Oh, uh . . .”

“You can think about it and give me a call tomorrow. Or text if you’re more comfortable. I’ve called from my mobile, so you have my number.”

“Okay.”

“Do the plans sound pleasing to you? You can bring as many friends as you’d like.”

“Absolutely. He’s very kind.”

“An astute observation. Have a good evening, Katrina. I will await your answer tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Simon.”

Anna told Aaron what Simon had said and Aaron bounced on his toes, his eyes wide. “Please, can I come?”

She laughed. “Of course. And Cameron. And Stef. I need to think about the rest. Do you think Hugo would want to come?”

“I don’t see why not.”

Anna called Simon the next day to let him know that there would be eight friends. “Is that too many?”

“Absolutely not, Katrina. You could invite more if you wanted.”

“No, these people are good.”

“Excellent. The limo will arrive at your place at eight to pick everyone up. Does that work for you?”

“Yes. Thanks.”

She’d told her friends that Kurt had arranged the rendezvous. How else could she explain an extravagant night out for eight? And the look on Jasmine’s face was priceless when she’d overheard. Anna briefly wondered if Jasmine had Kurt’s number, and if she would call him, but the wonder hurt too much and she pushed it aside. She didn’t really want to know. If she did... well, Anna would deal with the consequences later.

Chapter 131

Hugo was the first to arrive for their night on the town. “Damn, Katrina. That’s not fair.”

“What?”

“What you’re wearing.” He slid his arms around her waist and kissed her cheek. “Not nice to tease the ex-boyfriend.”

Anna giggled and playfully pushed him away. Sometimes the feelings that came up when he touched her were nearly unbearable. She’d given up Hugo for an unkind future husband. The thought made her so angry.

She pushed the anger aside, determined to enjoy the evening. “I thought that was what exes were supposed to do to each other.” She grinned.

“You should have seen her last week!” Cameron wagged his eyebrows. “Even I was tempted.”

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